It shows a shift towards solar car technology reaching the mainstream, and pushing those developing the technology to search for the sustainable alternative to petrol-powered cars.

Two Australian teams have taken on this challenge, University of NSW and TAFE SA, but the real game changer in the Cruiser Class is Dutch team Eindhoven's car Stella – the world's first four-seat solar car.

While it does not really resemble a normal car, its bus-like facade and tear-drop profile is still much less space-age than the typical solar car.

Also new to the rules this year is a requirement for four wheels on cars in the Challenger Class - again signalling a push towards the mainstream.

The extra wheel brings weight, and the burden of wasted energy, but every effort is made to make up for lost power.

Some cars weigh as little as 150kg without their driver, therefore maximising efficiency but also increasing the dangers that come with a less sturdy vehicle.

One Challenger Class team from the University of Cambridge has already paid the price for having less grip and weight on the road.

They have crashed twice during test drives near Darwin.

Last race interrupted by bushfires

Organisers say the official scrutineering ahead of the race ensures it will be as safe as possible. Still, many unknowns lie ahead.

The last race, in 2011, was interrupted by bushfires in Central Australia.